Creamy Cajun Shrimp Fettuccine
Imagine twirls of tender fettuccine coated in a spicy, creamy sauce with plump shrimp that sing with Cajun spice.
Total: 35 minPrep: 15 minCook: 20 min4 servingsDifficulty: Medium⭐ 4.7 (123+ ratings)$
Ingredients
Servings:
- 8 oz fettuccine
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Steps
- 1 Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- 2 Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- 3 Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
- 4 Stir in Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika, toasting for about 30 seconds.
- 5 Add shrimp to the skillet, cooking until pink and opaque.
- 6 Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine and simmer for 3 minutes.
- 7 Toss cooked fettuccine into the skillet, coating it with the sauce.
- 8 Finish with lemon juice and parsley.
- 9 Serve immediately with grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Pot for pasta
Variations
- Substitute fettuccine with penne or linguine for a different texture.
- Add sautéed spinach or zucchini for extra veggies.
Substitutions
- Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free option.
- Swap shrimp with chicken for a different protein.
Pairings
- A chilled Chardonnay complements the creamy sauce.
- A zesty Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the richness.
Nutrition
Calories:
520 kcal
Fat:
22g fat
Carbs:
50g carbohydrates
Protein:
30g protein
Fiber:
3g fiber
Sugar:
4g sugar
Sodium:
800mg sodium
Tips
- For extra spice, add a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer a bit longer or add a tablespoon of butter at the end.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth.
Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat with a splash of cream for best texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp Caesar salad.
- Serve with warm, crusty bread.
FAQ
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, prepare up to the point of adding the shrimp, then store separately and finish cooking before serving.